Mumbai Indians batsman Rohit Sharma retired hurt during their match against the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Sunday. With MI scheduled to face the Punjab Kings at Wankhede Stadium on Thursday (April 26), concerns about the former captain’s fitness are mounting.
On Monday, Rohit underwent scans for a hamstring injury, but recent reports from Cricbuzz indicate there has been no additional information released. However, it seems there is no evidence of a severe injury that would sideline the veteran for an extended period this season. Nevertheless, uncertainty remains regarding his availability for the upcoming match against Punjab.
With no evidence of a hamstring tear, the Mumbai Indians must decide whether to utilize Rohit as an impact player in the forthcoming matches. He missed the nets session on Tuesday and did not attend practice at Wankhede Stadium, causing further concern regarding his condition. It now appears likely that Rohit will miss at least the next game, as he is keen to avoid aggravating his injury, especially with an eye on the ODI World Cup in 2027.
In the absence of Rohit, Mumbai Indians will need to find a suitable opener. Historically, Naman Dhir has filled in at the top of the order for temporary solutions. The franchise could consider promoting 22-year-old Danish Malewar from Vidarbha, who has shown promise. In the Vidarbha Pro T20 League last year, Malewar scored 318 runs in six matches, boasting an impressive average of 79.5 and a strike rate of 161.42. His standout performance included an unbeaten 120 off 55 balls in one of the games. It remains to be seen if MI will rest Rohit and give Malewar an opportunity in the next match.
Mumbai Indians currently sit in ninth place in the IPL 2026 points table.
